Madison Rising raises eyebrows with rock national anthem before Nationwide opener at Daytona

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – "America's most patriotic rock band" performed America's most patriotic song at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday.

And the reviews were mixed.

Madison Rising's rendition of the national anthem had a few drivers chuckling and some fans shaking their heads before the Nationwide Series season opener.

The band's version of "The Star Spangled Banner," which has more than 5 million views on YouTube, was shortened for television purposes. Nonetheless, the guitar-heavy interpretation seemed to catch NASCAR off guard. Drivers Brad Keselowski and Danica Patrick had puzzled looks on their faces near the end of it.

Lead singer Dave Bray acknowledged beforehand "we took some liberties. The reverence is still there, but it has sort of taken on the death march in a way. It's very sullen and sung in a very sullen way."